Use of Intel Mac as Primary Windows box as well?

I'm seriously thinking about buying a 15" MBP in the next few weeks. However, I was wondering if anyone has been using one of the Intel Macs with Bootcamp as their PRIMARY Windows box as well?

Ideally I'd like to do all my design work on OSX, but do all my web development work on Windows XP Pro (which, frankly, comprises about 80% of my time). Is this a prudent thing to do? I'm hearing mixed reviews about the stability of Bootcamp.

I was thinking of hooking up the MBP to my larger flat screen monitor when at home, but would love the versatility of the laptop when traveling. I just love these darn Mac Book Pros, it's clouding my judgment. But the heat and noise issues, and lack of USB ports also makes me hesitate though.

Anyone else in the same boat? Is it really possible to have the best of both worlds?

Staff Member

I'm seriously thinking about buying a 15" MBP in the next few weeks. However, I was wondering if anyone has been using one of the Intel Macs with Bootcamp as their PRIMARY Windows box as well?

Ideally I'd like to do all my design work on OSX, but do all my web development work on Windows XP Pro (which, frankly, comprises about 80% of my time). Is this a prudent thing to do? I'm hearing mixed reviews about the stability of Bootcamp.

I was thinking of hooking up the MBP to my larger flat screen monitor when at home, but would love the versatility of the laptop when traveling. I just love these darn Mac Book Pros, it's clouding my judgment. But the heat and noise issues, and lack of USB ports also makes me hesitate though.

Anyone else in the same boat? Is it really possible to have the best of both worlds?

Thanks
Rick

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I haven't powered on any of my Windows boxes since I got my MBP about 3 months ago (and am in the process of selling them). I've gone one step further though and don't use Bootcamp but Parallels. I use Win2K3 under Parallels to do heavyweight windows development and it's absolutely superb.
Personally speaking, I've not had any heat or noise issues and the lack of USB ports is easily fixed with a portable USB hub

I've been using Boot Camp to run some embroidery design software I purchased for my business. I have been really happy with it since the software requires a usb dongle to run. Not a single hiccup.

I would like to dump my two systems (iMac Intel & Lenovo laptop) and run just one. I too am going to wait for the new Merom laptops and OS X 10.5 before I make a final decision. I might try Parallels in the interim.

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